Bodily Fluids and Fitness 101: Deodorant [$100 Visa Card Giveaway!]

You remember how bad I sweat? My poor kids have inherited my overactive pits.

Sweat is a hot topic (hee!) around my house. Usually it revolves around how much I sweat (buckets), how quickly I can pit out my workout top (5 seconds), how to get the sweat smell out of my workout clothes (vinegar) and how to get Gym Hubby to quit putting his sweat-soaked Ultimate Frisbee duds in the same pile as the baby’s rainbow-scented pink clothing. Needless to say there has been many a Gym Buddy conversation about which kind of deodorant is best and what it makes us smell like and how best to apply it. Is all over my body an option? No?

Gym Buddy Allison has a very complicated routine involving two separate deodorants applied at different times of day which she swears keeps her totally pit-stain free. Krista despises roll-ons and recently spent an entire workout complaining about her shirt being “super glued” to her pits. I buy whatever’s on clearance which is why my armpits currently sparkle (I use it to psych people out on the weight floor – I just flash ’em my pit and then grab the kettlebell while they’re distracted! Ooh shiny!). Megan…I actually don’t know what she does for deodorant which seems odd because we’re all so weirdly tight that we know each other’s feminine hygeine preference, bra size and poop timing among other invasive things. Meg – call me!

But lately sweat has been coming up in a way I had not anticipated. (Wow, that made it sound grosser than it is.) Anyhow, I’ve long appreciated the ability of my kids to make me sweat but until now I’d underestimated their ability to produce it. My oldest son is 9. He is officially a tween, complete with eye-rolling, sarcasm and, oh yes, body odor. But how does one talk to a tween about personal hygiene? Am I allowed to use eye-rolling and sarcasm too? Because if so, I’ve totally got this one covered.

He’s too cute to smell funny, right?? Also, I love that he chose to eat a carrot alongside his birthday cake and ice cream bar. Maybe they do listen to me? Sometimes??

Seriously though, I just hadn’t thought this one out. I’m totally prepared for the sex talk – in fact, we’ve been having it with them in stages ever since my then 3-year-old said “Daddy put a baby in your tummy? Can it be my turn next?” – but I hadn’t considered how I was going to teach my boys about proper showering, hair-gelling, cologne-wearing (one tiny spray is plenty), and deodorant applying. After all, it seems like just yesterday I was teaching them how to properly wipe their own butts. Oh wait, that’s because it was yesterday. And it involved the instruction, “No you cannot wipe and watch TV at the same time.”

So when Unilever (makers of Degree® Men, Degree® Women, Degree® Girl, Dove®, and Suave®) asked if I wanted to be a part of their Don’t Fret The Sweat campaign – a program designed to “provide parents with tools and kids with opportunities to build confidence and be inspired in everything they do” – I figured I could use all the help I can get. And hey maybe I’d get some good tips for myself as well on how to deal with my own Sweaty Betty-ness.

In an effort to keep everyone “cool, calm and confident throughout the day – especially during life’s sweat-inducing moments” Unilever is offering one GFE reader a $100 Visa gift card plus a Don’t Fret The Sweat gift pack (yes I just called deodorant cool). Here’s how to enter:

No duplicate comments.

You may receive (2) total entries by selecting from the following entry
methods:

a) Leave a comment telling me about your deodorant routine OR your first experience with deodorant (how old you were, who told you, if you licked it to see if it tastes as good as it smells – just me? – or whatever).

b) Tweet about this promotion and leave the URL to that tweet in a comment
on this post

c) Blog about this promotion and leave the URL to that post in a comment on
this post

d) For those with no Twitter or blog, read the official rules to learn about
an alternate form of entry.

This giveaway is open to US Residents age 18 or older

Contest runs from 10/4 to 11/4

Winners will be selected via random draw, and will be notified by e-mail.

You have 72 hours to get back to me, otherwise a new winner will be
selected.

Visit the BlogHer Prizes & Promotions section for more chances to win!
Visit the Official Rules

363 Comments

  1. Dove Clinical Protection Deodorant. Life CHANGING. Seriously– that stuff works like nothing else, and I’ve tried everything.

  2. Right now I’m using Tom’s all natural whatever, but I don’t think it’s working so well (sorry work buddies!), so I’ll probably switch back to Dove when I run this bar out. Dove seems to be great! I don’t know what’s in it, and I don’t think I care …

    • I’m about to post below but I had an allergic reaction to the Tom’s (which got worse because I love their toothpaste and mouthwash and other items and really wanted to like the deodorant, so I kept wearing it past when I shouldn’t have…) Anyway, I use Dove clinical strength now (cause I’m paranoid about stink) and it works well with no rash. I kinda don’t wanna know what’s in it either… but I figure no one wants me using something that gives me such a bad burn/rash I can’t wear ANYTHING…

  3. I love putting my deodorant on extra thick. I feel like it works better that way 🙂 And all I wear is Degree. Period. It works the best for me!

  4. I’m seriously allergic to most fragrances, and it’s a skin-touch allergy so deodorant is a bit of a problem for me. I avoid it if possible, and when necessary (until very recently I lived in Florida … there was a lot of necessary), I use Toms. But I know when I can get away with it (usually, there’ve been one or two “whoops, now would be good…” moments). I figure if people are really objecting to the smell of a daily-showered woman working out at the gym, they need to work out harder. That said, I applaud you broaching the subject with your son. I spent 3 hours right behind a rather ripe young Italian teenager during a performance at the Globe recently. Showering often isn’t something they automatically pick up, and on a warmer-than-normal London night, being packed in as a groundling made for a rather … fragrant performance.

  5. I’m sorry I have no words of wisdom or experience for ya. I actually had to aske my mother for deodorant as a youngster. That was pretty much the case with everything though. Aside from that I haven’t really figured out a deodorant method as of yet. I pretty much just lay it on thick and hope for the best. That is definitely not working. My husband won’t sit near me after a workout it’s so bad. Yikes! I’m thinking of going the clinal strength route and hope for success. Fingers crossed!

  6. I started using my older bro’s deodorant when I was 11. I’d sneak into his bedroom and swipe my arm (and knee!) pits, and then I was ready to face anything the day could throw my way. I never did lick it though.

  7. I don’t remember the first deodorant issue either – but I’m sure I had to ask for it as well (my mother never voluntarily taught/showed me ANYTHING). I switch back and forth from Secret to Dove. I can sweat going to get the mail at the end of the drive in January! 🙂

    But, on the sweaty boys thing: my 11 year old started becoming aware of it at 10 and so we talked about how dad wears it and yes, he could try his dad’s out (sorry Wade!), etc. Now, it seems like peer-pressure is working on the boys who aren’t wearing it on their own for whatever reason. And, he only gets deodorant – NOT anti-persperant yet. Something recommended to us due to their growing and changing, and what-not. (Why can’t I figure out how to spell anti-p?) I really feel for his teachers because many of his friends have P.E. first thing in the morning.

  8. Deodorant put on right after shower, Deodorant put on before working out, Deodorant put on after shower after working out, Deodorant put on before bed! No wonder I run out so fast of deodorant…

  9. I buy whatever’s cheapest that has the word “invisible” somewhere on the label. I do NOT want to lift my arm and see clumps of white goo!
    After shower only. The idea of rubbing my nice, clean deodorant stick on an already smelly pit does not fly with me.

  10. I actually have started making my own withe coconut oil, baking soda and arrowroot powder/corn starch. But it takes awhile to dry- so I use Degree little black dress approved on days I am too lazy/cold to apply the homemade stuff.

  11. I bought Secret from Costco a while ago, and I think it smells horrible (some kind of fruity smell, even though it says its the original scent), but now I have like 5 bars to get through (since it’s Costco). I apply once in the morning and again after my post-workout shower. But favorite ever deodorant was the crystal deodorant stick which is not an anti-perspirant (I’ve given up on that; I WILL perspire) but it masks the smell completely without adding any other fruity smells and it doesn’t leave white marks on my clothes! It lasts for months, but the only problem is that if you drop it, you have pieces of crystal rock all over your bathroom floor.

  12. Ha, my first deodorant experience was in 4th grade after the puberty video. They gave all the girls a pack of stuff – including a mini deodorant. I thought it was SO cool to use it.

  13. I deodorize in the morning, and then after I work out, if I’m not going to get to a shower soon.

  14. I typically put on deodorant before I go to bed and then again after I shower in the morning.
    I’m a massive sweater and am not sure I’ve ever found a deodorant I actually think works.

  15. Oh how I sweat..I work in the OR and am constantly changing my scrubs due to sweating through them. Nothing like sloppy wet clothes to work in. But I have discovered Adidas deodorant and love it! Doesn’t help the all over sweat factor but my armpits are heaven every day/

  16. I use Dove Clinical Protection, love it. Put it on before bed and after my morning shower.

  17. For a while I was buying whatever was on sale, but I’ve now learned that I really prefer Secret. It keeps me much drier.

  18. I am the queen of sweat, but I started using clinical strength deodorant and haven’t looked back. It is amazing the difference that the clinical strength makes. I hate to pay more but the ability to walk around in public without sweat stains – priceless.

  19. 9 years old is a tween?!?! Where have I been?

    I use Dove. I put it on after I shower. I try to remember on mornings I don’t shower, but I have a spare in my office for those days I forget. Not that that ever happens. You know.

    • Yeah it sounded young to me too but I looked it up and 9-12 are the official “tween” years. Eek, I know.

  20. first deodorant was definitely exciting since i got to go pick from the multicolored selection of teen spirit 🙂

  21. Unfortunately, The Girl has inherited my hot sleeper tendencies and wakes up soaked with sweat.

    I don’t remember my first deodorant experience, but I know if I don’t put it on in the morning, I’ll be smelling bad before I even get to work.

  22. I usually just slap on some Secret (Powder Fresh) and try not to worry about it. And while I never licked it, I did get my opportunity to taste it a few years back when a stick melted in my car and all over some stray starbursts I kept in the console. Who knew that deodorant would seep through the starburst wrappers so easily?! Needless to say, it is not the most appetizing substance.

  23. I use Dove Ultimate Visibly Smooth. I put it on after I shower, which is usually first thing every morning. I almost never reapply unless I workout and have no time to shower afterwards.

  24. I think I was about 11 or 12 when I started wearing deodorant. I’ve always used baby powder scent, even to this day.

  25. I have a wierd sweat problem- none of the “regular” deodorants keep me from stinking on a daily basis (as opposed to work out sweat stink.) Even prescription strength doesn’t work!!However there is one brand (Secret PH balance) thatk keeps the stink under control…i guess I am too acidic or something?!?

  26. I still haven’t found a deodorant that works well for me (even the clinical stuff doesn’t work too well). I keep a container of a mix of cornstarch and baking soda and use that to “dust” with after I put on the deodorant.

    I’ve never tasted deodorant, but in a youthful moment as a camp counselor, I did taste foot powder on a dare. We wanted to see if it tasted as minty as it smelled – it didn’t.

  27. When I was in middle school I used Teen spirit because it smelled fruity, now I either use Secret or Degree (whichever I have a coupon for). As long as I smell good I’m ok.

  28. A couple of years ago, I went through an “itchy” pits phase. I changed deodorant, soap, and went to the doctor for two kinds of prescriptions before finding something that finally worked–Lady Mitchum…so effective, you can skip a day, but would you, really? EVER? I wouldn’t! The trouble with it is that I hate the way it smells, especially when I’m working out. I would actually rather smell my own body odor than have to smell this deodorant…but I don’t think others around me feel the same way, so I suffer through it. My teenager uses Axe for Men deodorant…no clue where she got that from, but it’s totally disgusting. I had the deodorant talk with Little Sister last summer and for a while, it was the coolest thing ever, but the novelty has long since worn off and she frequently needs to be reminded. Ahh, the joys of parenting. 😉

  29. I never licked my deodorant, but my routine requires a shirt on before deodorant application (to avoid those weird white smudges), which has lead to me leaving the house without it more than once. I’ll go buy deodorant on my way to work before I’ll show up for work without a fresh scent wafting from my pits. I use Secret religiously, and was more than a little distraught when my local stores stopped stocking the spring breeze flavor in the soft solid form. I now have about 9 sticks around the house and in various bags, trying to figure out which one I like best.

  30. I use it in the morning after I shower….so if I don’t shower then….I rarely put it on before the gym, oddly enough.

  31. I remember using my parents deodorant and it was right guard aerosol and it burned and I hated deodorant
    tbarrettno1 at gmail dot com

  32. Guess what?
    I don’t use deoderant.
    Ever.

    I am 33 and I stopped after college. I was like, why am I doing this?
    I don’t sweat much (except in the Sauna) but I do live in South Florida and I guarantee you I don’t smell.

    Weird, huh?

  33. I think my first experience was probably in elementary school when I joined the little kids running club. Deodorant was on the school’s list of necessary “equipment.” When I was in school, I always wanted the spray on deodorant because then all the girls in the locker room could share if they forgot theirs. However, now I use the stick because I’m not sharing (and the spray was always so cold!).

  34. I think I started using deodorant when I was 12 or 13. Right now I use Dove.

  35. It’s funny – I don’t sweat much in a normal day, and I used to think I didn’t sweat much when I exercise.
    Well then.
    Now that I really push myself when I exercise I’m overall soaked and sweaty when I’m done working out…but strangely still not much as far as pits go. I know…wierd. I can have sweat dripping off my chin and have my workout shirt totally damp, but still be pit-dry – guess my deoderant works :). All I know is it feels good to sweat. It let me know I’m working out.

  36. I also get whatever is on sale. And I am also a sweaty Betty. I dabbled in the world of clinical strengths, but could never remember to put it on at night as instructed so cannot testify to whether it is worth it.

  37. I’ve been using an all-natural crystal spray and surprisingly it works great! no stink even after a half marathon 🙂

  38. I use Secret invisible gel. I hate the gel, I like the white semi-solid but my husband has an aversion to the white balls (stop checking out my pits, perv), so he insists that gel it is 🙂

  39. Hi Char!
    I buy & wear whatever is on sale. Sometimes I even forget to apply. Maybe that’s why no one will stand next to me while I teach group fitness! LOL I bet they are worried I’m going to make them “Dance like a monkey!”

  40. I use the super sonic “prescription strength” Secret deodorant as directed which means when I get into bed, I apply two clicks under each arm. I then proceed to keep my arms glued to my sides for as long as possible to avoid getting crazy deodorant stains all over my sheets. Rarely is this effort successful. The tube (bottle, stick? What exactly do you call the deodorant canister thing?) says that it doesn’t wash off in the show in the morning, but ,of course, I double up just in case. After fully dressing, to avoid unsightly deodorant stains, I apply a second coat of a high powered clear powder type Secret. Its an elaborate dance that still leaves my bed covered in fresh smelling white deodorant marks. However, this method is generally successful. Special events and highly stressful situations excluded.

  41. I was in 4th grade and the school gave it to us. I was horrbily embarressed by it and hid it from my parents!

  42. I have a great deodorant story but it has to do with my little brother, not me. I’ll never forget walking in on him in the bathroom when we were in high school, and he was applying deodorant to the insides of his forearms. When I asked him what he was doing, he looked at ME like *I* was crazy. Turns out he had seen all those deodorant commercials where people apply a stripe to each arm to show how the better brand doesn’t flake or dry out. Poor kid! He’s 33 now and I still tease him about it. In fact, you just inspired me to go leave a message about it on his Facebook page!

    • Buwhahahah! I’m dying!! Best story ever. I cringe to think what would have happened if he were a girl and watched a maxi pad commercial…

  43. Hey Char- I Tweeted about this but don’t know how to obtain the tweet’s URL. Any ideas?

    • You just click on the date/time stamp at the bottom of the tweet and it will take you to the dedicated URL but no worries, this comment counts fine. I saw your tweet – thank you!

  44. I use Secret Clinical Strength Waterproof deodorant. I got hooked on the stuff when I got a free sample in the mail. I decided to try it while running and was sold. I actually smelled fresh while dripping wet from a run on a hot day.

    When I won’t be needing the maximum strength stuff, I wear Dove Ultimate in cool cucumber because it’s about the only kind that doesn’t discolor my armpits. To be honest, I never noticed that Dove had clinical strength waterproof deodorant or I would have been all over it. Guess what I’m trying next?!

    As for the routine, I apply in the morning or anytime I’m fresh out of the shower. Sometimes I’ll reapply during the day if needed.

  45. Hi Charlotte,

    My deodorant routine depends on how much/hard I work out, what time of year it is, when I get to shower, whether I’m at home alone or out and about, etc., etc.

    When absolutely needed, I’ll use regular deodorant, but am freaky about it because of aluminum/Alzheimer’s/family tragedies. So basically, my “routine” is not all that routine.

    I’m not a gym rat, and I don’t sweat overmuch unless it’s hot and I’m working out hard, so my non-deodorant ways seem to not be too much of a problem, and I do cave in when I must. Otherwise, baby powder, cologne and daily showers or baths timed properly seem to work OK.

  46. I wear Secret either powder fresh or baby powder. I just try to switch “flavors” each time, but this is the brand I have had the best success with. And my 3 yr old little girl thinks its cool when I put it on, so she wants some. I dab it on her pits and she just laughs! Too Cute!

  47. I used to steal some of my parents’ deodorant, so I could be like them. Only problem was, I pretty much covered myself from elbow to waist in deodorant! Needless to say, they weren’t too excited about the now empty deodorant or about cleaning me up.

  48. My first deoderant memory was making fun of a neighborhood girl by calling her ‘the deoderant queen’. For some reason, I found it odd that she had already started using deoderant in the 3rd or 4th grade. I even remember it was Arid XX, in the spray can. I maybe wasn’t the nicest child on the block.

  49. I’m using Secret Clinical right now. Isalright. I don’t put it on at night like you’re supposed to because I shave my armpits every morning and felt like I was shaving all my antiperspirant off. And I only use half a click instead of two because it’s slimy. Whatever. I don’t mind sweating when I work out. Shows I’m working hard!

  50. I put on deodorant 3+ times per day as I am a little paranoid. I have a bunch of brands because there is one in my bedroom, my bathroom, my office, both gym bags, a mini in my purse, and one in my car. Lately, I’ve been liking the Secret because I found the Adidas one I tried left a slug like trail of sticky gunk.

  51. I use the pink dove that I supposed to help keep your pit hair from growing as fast. It smells like roses. I keep lady speed stick in my bag with me at all times though- it’s more hardcore!

  52. Maybe I’m weird, but I’m not an extremely sweaty person. Although I tried switching to a plain deodorant (no anti-persperant) and that gave me a horrible rash in my pits. So back to the tough stuff for me!

    Also, totally off topic, but I thought of you the other day (is that weird?) because I was in Old Navy, and they had a tiny little baby-sized tutu! I almost bought it, just because of how precious it was (and no, I don’t have kids).

    • Hahaha I love it! I have seen those tutus and I’m pretty sure Jelly Bean owns one in every color;) And hey, I wouldn’t say you’re weird, I’d say you’re lucky!!

  53. I’m like you, I get whatever is on sale, but I also try to rotate the brands I use. Kinda like shampoo.

  54. I have no great story about my first deodorant experience, it was fifth grade and we had to start changing for gym so we also started wearing deodorant. Even though gym was usually just us whining about having to run around the gym a couple of times and maybe play some volleyball or do a bit of square dancing. But I have to say, licking deodorant is the NASTIEST thing in the world. I hate when you get it under your fingernail and then somehow accidentally get it in your mouth!!! EW!

  55. I use Dove, the cucumber scent. I apply in the morning, and then again if I go work out before work (apres shower). Oddly enough, I’m pretty dry unless I’m really kicking butt and intentionally doing a moderate to intense workout, and in that case, my sweat is like a badge of honor!

  56. If I workout in the evening (which happens a lot) or afternoon, I put deoderant on after I shower, and then again in the morning before I get dressed. Otherwise, it is just once a day in the morning after I shower- unless I am going out somewhere special in the evening, in which case I might re-apply.

  57. I use whatever is on sale! If I am running, I must wear it, or I chafe. Other than that, it is just a habit to put it on. But I have to ask, you licked it? Sorry, but eww 🙂

  58. I use my own recipe (below) and it seriously works better than anything I’ve ever tried (including Secret Clinical Strength). I’ve also noticed that as my body adjusted, I don’t have much under arm odor anymore (though this could also be related to drastically changing diet). Anyway, this way, its aluminum free and it works well. it is what i’ll be offering to my little ones when they are big enough to need it…

    p.s. I love your writing… only you can make things like underarm odor seem funny 🙂

    Homemade Deodorant Ingredients:

    * 6 Tablespoons of Coconut Oil
    * 1/4 cup Baking Soda (without Aluminum)
    * 1/4 cup arrowroot or cornstarch (actually optional, but helps absorb wetness)
    * Essential oils (optional)

    Note: If you don’t have the ingredients, they are all available here.

    How To Make Homemade Deodorant:

    1. Make sure coconut oil is warm enough to be somewhat soft.
    2. Mix baking soda and arrowroot in a small bowl.
    3. Add coconut oil and mix with a small spoon or spatula until very well incorporated.
    4. Add essential oils if desired.
    5. Store in a small glass jar and apply a small amount with finger tips daily.

    • Very cool!! I had no idea one could even make their own deodorant. I will totally try this! Thanks for the recipe. And thank you for the kind compliment:)

  59. I think I told you this in your other post BUT I look like I have been swimming by the time I finish my cardio – sopping wet, dripping everywhere BUT I smell like the swamp! 😉 I started to use the Clinical strength deodorants & I do think they work better but I still smell, just not as much. I like the powder scent!

  60. I’m very, very lucky in that I don’t sweat very much, and when I do, I smell more like clean dirt than like sweaty body stink. I don’t know if I’ve ever pitted out a shirt, even at derby practice when I have sweat rolling down my back and neck. So I buy whatever’s on clearance and smells good too! Which is anything but “Powder Fresh” scents because they remind me of all the awkwardness of 7th grade and why would I want to smell like a baby’s diaper anyway?

  61. I was about eleven or twelve and my mom told me I needed it because I smelled bad. I got totally embarrassed and refused to wear it until I went to a drugstore with a friend and we bought it together. I remember trying on clothes once with my mom and she apologized to the sales person for my smell. As hideously embarrassing as that was, I think that’s what made me go out and buy it!
    My mom sucked at the delicate topics….and in fact we still don’t talk about delicate topics! I’m desperately trying to create a relationship with my girls that will allow us to talk about these things much more openly.

  62. I have really sensitive skin, but that doesn’t keep me from sweating. Even some of the stuff marketed as “hypoallergenic” or “gentle” or whatever can be irritating. I think it’s the antiperspirant ingredients, because I don’t have a problem with just plain deodorant. That’s what I stick with when it’s cool enough. But I live in Texas — it’s too hot to go without antiperspirant during summer! Right now I’m using Almay, sparingly.

  63. I remember being SO embarrassed buying deodorant for the first time, sneaking with my friend to the drug store; we were probably in 5th and 6th grade. I’m pretty sure I wasn’t even stinky, I rarely need deodorant even these days.

  64. I’m surprised you don’t use your own homemade stuff. I’m not sure why, perhaps I’ve been reading too many homemade-natural-everything Mormon blogs, and I made a terrible assumption (sorry! I do love those blogs though!)

    I’m a terrible terrible sweat-er. I’ve even tried this stuff you put on at night that makes you stop sweating. I made the big jump a few weeks ago and switched to a homemade version (someone posted it here already – coconut oil, arrowroot powder, and baking soda (aluminum free), with tea tree oil). I slop it into an old deodorant container and keep it in the fridge. It works great – I still sweat but it doesn’t smell.

    I’m trying to avoid using products with things that have questionable ingredients – which includes everything from Secret to Dove even to Tom’s natural stuff. I haven’t had children yet and want to make sure everything still works when its time though!

    • Quite honestly I didn’t even know it was possible to make your own deodorant until today! But I’ve added it to my list of things to try. I’m really bad at the DIY stuff. I was super proud of myself the day I learned I could make my own yogurt and that only has one ingredient, lol!

  65. I too am a serious sweater. It took me a long time to “not care” that I was a soggy mess on the treadmill at the gym. I still can’t get past the “omg, I hope I don’t smell as bad as I look” phase. So I use all kinds of antiperspirants. I like the nice melon-y smelling ones and I usually couple that with some light berry scented body lotion on my arms and legs. Oh yeah and I try to stay one treadmill away from everybody else….

  66. I use Certain Dri every night before bed (that’s what the instructions tell you to do…) its a life-changer for sure!

  67. i started wearing deodorant around 12!

  68. I remember being told in school we needed to have it in gym class and I had no idea what it was. I love degree…little black dress approved.

  69. I don’t remember my first deodorant, but I LOVE Dove clinical strength. I tend to use the organic/all natural handsoap, toothpaste, mouth wash, etc, and I tried several kinds of all-natural deodorants. Most didn’t work. Tom’s gave me a horrible rash, like a mild burn or chemical burn, to the point that I couldn’t wear ANY deodorant until it healed. It hurt just to have my arms by my side, where the skin touched anything. Forget shaving.

    I started using the Dove clinical stuff right after that – I’m not thrilled about the chemicals in it, but I needed something that would be easy on my pits, at least for the time being. It’s been GREAT. It works very well, and it actually smells good instead of medicine-y. Best of all, it doesn’t irritate my pits at all (and I hardly even seem to get razor burn on them these days, where I used to get it constantly). I had thought I would use it temporarily until the allergic reaction to the Tom’s stuff healed, but I’m still using it years later. Love it.

  70. I started using deodorant once I hit puberty and started to sweat like a 16yr old boy. I still use “Teen Spirit” brand to this day. lol

  71. I love using the dove for men deodorant. I found out through trial and error that I have to stick to using the white chalky one. I prefer these ones anyways but I used to use old spice. Loved the stuff. Not only did old spice not do it’s job and kept me sweating, I found out that I’m allergic to the glycol in the gel kinds of deodorant. Kept on getting red rashes on my underarms. Tried loads of different ones, and through process of elimination I found my allergy.

  72. I use Secret and plenty of it… Hot flash thing…. 🙁

  73. I think I was about 13 years old when I had my first boy-deodorant experience. It was spice scented Mennen Speed Stick. To this day, I still remember how it smelled when I put it on after gym or after 8th grade football. But alas, it just covered up the armpit smell. To this day, my favorite deodorant/antiperspirant is Degree.

  74. My routine is pretty basic – fresh deodorant before working out and then more after showering. I’m not real picky about what deodorant I use – as long as it isn’t sticky!

  75. For odor control, I use aluminum salts in the form of a solid ‘rock’ that I apply to wet, freshly showered armpits.. it forms an invisible film that inhibits bacterial growth. I’m a yoga and pilates teacher so I do work out often and sweat a lot; the crystal deodorant cuts down on sweat volume, and I don’t smell bad at all as long as I reapply every night.

    I also work in the Wellness dept of a natural foods co-op, and am sorry to report that Tom’s of Maine has been acquired by Colgate; they changed ingredients in toothpaste overnight and it now contains sodium lauryl sulfate. Of course they didn’t give any indication to consumers (packaging looks the same, so why would a faithful customer ever bother to ‘re-check’ ingredients when stocking up? – their thoughts exactly. Grrr!). I wouldn’t be surprised if the deodorants contain similar offensive ingredients, and even before the buyout, I developed allergies to Tom’s deodorant after 3-4 months of use (switched to a different scent and used it successfully for 3-4 months, then bam! – one day, red circles under my armpits again).

    I highly recommend the aluminum salts deodorant crystals, and I think this giveaway is awesome, but it kind of creeps me out that it’s sponsored by the producers of such chemical-laden products! That being said, I’d be extremely grateful for a Visa gift card 🙂 🙂

  76. In 5th grade my teacher sat down with my parents to discuss my hygiene. SO embarrassing!!!
    I use to use dove, which smelt real good but it didn’t do much for my sweat or smell (which seems to be getting alot worse these days). So I remembered what my mom recommend to me as a kid and I now use Certain Dry every night before bed ( or when I remember) and Mitchum after my shower. I swear it has helped tremendously!! I’m one to have pit stains just from getting dressed right after my shower. But now, now I can sit in a 90 degree room with a sweatshirt on for hours and not have one drop of sweat under there. It’s a miracle I tell you. Miracle.

  77. Melinda Mendy Dinsmore

    I was in PE one day and noticed other girls using it…so I started using it also.

  78. I’ve been using Dove for years. I don’t like anything with a strong scent to it, and this is perfect. I use it in the AM before I bike to work, put on a little more at work (Suave 24hr Protection Powder scent…..yes, I don’t like scents but I’m post-bike to work and have to do a quick wipe down with baby wipes.)
    Looking to try something more natural but haven’t gotten around to it yet.

  79. I’m a lazy lot so its whatever on sale with coupon that graces my pits WHEN i remember to put the stuff on ;p

  80. p.s. oops i forgot to mention that i like the guys deodorant scents BETTER than the women’s so in our house, guys deodorant stockpiles is more than the women, much horror to my daughter’s pits LOL

  81. Personally I’m a big fan of Degree. I was using Secret for awhile, but one day I couldn’t figure out what that awful smell in my van was. Turns out it was me! It wasn’t even normal stinky pits smell, either. It was just WRONG. Thankfully switching back to Degree solved all my problems and now I smell like unicorn breath again.

    Or at least not like there’s something wrong with me. Which is all anyone can ask, really.

  82. Every time after I shower!

  83. I really don’t remember my first experince with deodorant., but I am notw having these discussions with my own children. My 12-year old is having issues finding the perfect deodorant. We may try some of the options suggested in the blog.

    As a middle school teacher, discussions about hygiene come up a lot. I have found it is best to blunt and honest as most kids this age don’t seem to understand being subtle with these types of discussions. It amazes me how stinky kids get after recess and PE. There are many times you may hear a teacher telling the entire class they stink. Often times the kids don’t realize how odiferous they are! This is why air conditioning is a blessing in schools. The colder it is , the less stinky it its1!

  84. I use certain dry solid after every shower or in the morning if I don’t shower before work. What? I always shower after a sweat session so if all i did after a workout is shower then sleep Im not showering again. But a fresh coat of Certain Dry is a given.

  85. i was about 12 when i started wearing deoderant

  86. I’m pretty sure that I started wearing deodorant at a normal age, BUT something crazy has changed in the last 5 years or so and I’ve had to change over to clinical strength to help me out!

  87. oh my routine haha i always count how many swipes I put on each pit so I am not uneven. No one has told me how to, so since i’ve been wearing it i’ve been counting 🙂

  88. My mom always had me put it on at night before I went to bed so that it “set”. Don’t believe that one.
    I got my twins to begin using deodorant by getting them the kits that come with body wash, moisturizer, body spray and stick deodorant.

  89. I have no clue when I first used deodorant, but I’m pretty sure my mom told me to? Maybe? I generally use the clear gel, after showering and also when I dress in the morning, because the opaque stuff tends to cake and feels icky. Unfortunately, the gel also dries my skin so then I have to use cocoa butter.I’ve definitely never tasted deodorant. I have tasted cocoa butter. I was hoping for a chocolate-y flavor. I’m weird too!

  90. I would love to win this! I also have a nine-year-old boy who is becoming full of stench. We weren’t sure when deoderant became appropriate and he is NOT happy about his new daily shower routine. (I know, we’re gross…but I figure kids don’t need to bath unless they are stinky, visibly dirty, or it’s been several days.) I have no idea when I started wearing deoderant but I’m not a terribly sweaty person even now.

  91. I have two of the grapefruity Dove deodorants that float around my life – personal bathroom, work desk drawer, purse, makeup bag. I tend to forget deodorant until it is too, too late.

  92. Sadly, I buy whatever is on sale!

  93. i apply at elast once a day. sometimes more if i have an “important meeting”. I hate the baby dry or powder smells. …and i am going to have to try vinegar b/c my husband has been telling me how much my workout clothes still stink when the come OUT of the dryer!!!

  94. I was in 8th grade and a cheerleader…I started waeraing some sort of baby powder scent deodorant!

  95. I usually only put on deodorant once per day (after I shower). I use Dove, the “invisible” solid kind. It seems to work well, I’ve been using it for years. Luckily I don’t have any issues in the sweating department, I guess I lucked out on that one!

  96. Certain Dri changed my life! I think I have hyperhidrosis and used to sweat even if I wasn’t hot. I still sweat a ton at the gym. I’m so sad I didn’t discover Certain Dri until after college because I ruined so many tops and was so embarrassed about it forever. And the one doctor I asked about it told me “it’s common in people with Type A personalities.” Ugh, so helpful! I now use the roll on at night and the refresher in the morning and I looove it.

  97. I use what ever is on sale and put it on the in the morning and I’m good to go..

  98. I think I started wearing deodorant at my early teens. I was always sweaty and no kidding, it wasn’t fun to be able to smell my own sweat, not to mention my close friends. It was one of my best friends who told me “it’s time”! I better don’t go too much into details here! LOL

    amy [at] utry [dot] it

  99. I dont think I wore deoderant until end of middle school or high school. I wasn’t a sweater, I’m still not

  100. My sister wore deoderant at age 10, she was a stinky kid

  101. My husband gets botox in his pitts for his sweating. Our kids will probably be sweaters too.

  102. I sweat a lot. I started wearing deodorant when I was 9 or 10. I even get botox injections to help decrease my perspiration. It def. helps!!!

    zelpuz77 at yahoo.com

  103. I’m with you–I buy whatever’s on sale. I guess it helps that I’m not a particularly heavy sweater, which I think is related to the fact that I’m always cold.

  104. Unfortunately (although I have read it is healthy) I am a huge sweater so my mom had to introduce deodorant to me at about age 8–but I thought it was cool at the time because it was a “big girl” thing.

  105. I don’t remember the exact age for myself or my son! But, boys seem to need it once they hit puberty!
    Thanks! kmassmanATgmailDOTcom

  106. I’m never loyal to any brand of antiperspirant but I frequently buy Degree for Women just because I love the smell. I always put on antiperspirant right after my shower and I love solids as opposed to roll-ons. I don’t feel “clean” if I don’t have my antiperspirant on.

  107. I really love Degree for Women. I started out using Secret, it was my mom’s brand. I think Degree just works better for me. I walk a lot, and I can work up a good sweat in the summer especially. I really hope I can help my kids develop good habits.

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  110. Secret works for me. I always look at the label and like a high % of that first ingredient, whatever it’s called. I always wonder if its really that good for me or not though….

  111. I’m telling ya – Old Spice Fresh scent rocks my world! I know it’s for men but it works wonders and is cheaper than any deodorant for women!

  112. i think i started using deodorant in junior high

  113. Uh, I think it was just you. And I just tell my boys to wear it. If they smell because they haven’t bothered, I refuse to drive them where they need to go until they freshen up. Also, a daily shower is required. Living with people is hard enough without BO making it harder!

  114. my first deodorant which I count in that category because that’s why I used it is talcum powder on my smelly feet then on my underarms.

  115. my routine is simple. a quick rub of Secret does it and only on hot humid days.

  116. The first deodorant I used was Arrid spray deodorant. My left armpit stinks quicker than my right so I have to apply deodoran more often to it. I know, TMI!
    Thanks.
    partymix25(at)hotmail(dot)com

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  118. I’ve actually never used deodorant! My friends think I’m crazy, but I just don’t need it. 🙂

  119. I started to use it when I was 13 or so. My mom brought me to the store so I can picked up the scent I liked.

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  121. I was 11 when I started wearing deodorant. I don’t remember if my mom talked to me about it but she must have.

  122. I was *informed* I needed to be wearing deodorant. By a boy. In junior high. It was awesome.

  123. I used to deodorize twice a day to avoid funk breakthrough. I’m now on a daily routine with the clinical strength ones. Yeah!

  124. I wear Suave or Secret, whichever one of those two on sale. They work the best for me. My favorite scent is powder fresh. Sometimes I may splurge and get the cucumber melon scent. I prefer the lighter scents.

  125. I started wearing deodorant at about 13

  126. I started wearing deodorant around the age of 13 and my Mom told me about it.
    mom22girlz at ymail dot com

  127. I first started using deodorant around 11 or 12. My school sat us all down and gave us a talk about it – then gave us free deodorant. I remember being embarrassed.

  128. The first time I realized I stunk I was thirteen and wore my dad’s deodorant to ballet class. And my armpits were itchy for a week.

    A couple of years ago I started using Tom’s deodorant and hated it at first because it didn’t artificially mask my scent. But I think over time my body got used to the gentler ingredients in Tom’s, and now I love it. I just use a smear every coupla days in the summer and (as far as I know) keeps me smellin’ fresh…no itching required.

  129. I started wearing deodorant around 12.

  130. I’ve never been very sweaty – i think I started around 13. And no, I never licked it LOL

  131. Thankfully after menopause I’ve rarely needed deoderant

  132. I think I was about 15 before I ever thought about deodorant. I really cannot remember though because it was so long ago.

    gmissycat at yahoo dot com

  133. I’m pretty sure I was about 11 when I started, I asked about using it one day while out shopping, my mom didnt argue she said yes and i’ve been using the same kind (secret) since that very early time, I couldnt imagine a day without it, its become habit for me to apply after a shower and my kids kinda just started on their own, I never had to request it because I felt they were stinky I think it might have been other friends that were using it and it inspired them

    Thanks for the great giveaway
    debis126 at yahoo.com

  134. I only use Secret invisible clear deodorants. I hate the solid whites because I wear a lot of blacks. 🙂 I don’t wear it daily but only on days if I exercise or work in a professional setting. I work from home so my deodorant lasts forever!

  135. I always make sure to put some on before working out and then after-esp if i don’t have a chance to shower right away…i know, nasty, but it’s not like i go to some formal meeting afterwards. If i have somewhere (anywhere public!) to go, then yes, i do shower and make sure i’m smelling my freshest. I like invisible solids, the other stuff makes my pits feel wet and i don’t like that!

    annae07 at aol dot com

  136. I’m definitely a sweater…not the fuzzy warm kind that you wear in the winter either 😉 So I use it at least twice daily to keep my pits (and other people’s noses) happy. Thanks!

  137. Morning and mid-afternoon or after working outside… I remember having to take it to junior high to refresh after doing our swimming unit in p.e.

  138. I am using something right now that doesn’t have aluminum in it. I make sure I bring something with me when I go to the gym.

  139. Deodorant every morning and after a shower (unless I forget. Which happens way too often).

    I actually learned about deodorant from my older brother. He gave me a little friendly advice when I started to need it. I was mortified, but I’m sure my classmates thanked him!

  140. Luckily, I’m not a big sweater 🙂 I use a spray crystal deodorant once a day and it works just fine. I don’t like the idea of an antiperspirant.

  141. Ugh, ever since I had kids I find I’m super sweaty and am currently trying out different deodorants to find one that works awesomely!

  142. I was 10 or 11 when I started using deodorant and while I don’t remember all the details, I do remember that I was chompin’ at the bit to do all the things my mom was doing, including shaving my legs and wearing makeup.

  143. I NOW PUT IT ON WITHIN A MINUTE OF EXITING THE SHOWER CAUSE ON SOME CRAZY DAYS I HAVE ACTUALLY FORGOTTEN TO PUT IT ON…AND IT’S A HORRIBLE DAY FEELING LIKE YOUR SMELLING
    nannypanpan at gmail.com

  144. I started using it in junior high.

  145. Oddly enough I don’t remember my first experience, but I do know that everyone in the house, including men, used Secret. For that reason it’s been hard for me to try another brand, although I see some compelling testimonials for some here! (If it doesn’t work for me, I’m out 7 or 8 bucks–wait, can you return deodorant if you’re not happy!?)

  146. I put my deodorant on first thing in the morning and after my shower in the evening during the summer months.

    abfantom at yahoo dot com

  147. I go to the gym a lot, so I use it about 3 times per day

  148. Valerie Taylor Mabrey

    I started wearing deodorant when I was ten. I had a sickness that made me take penicillin so the smell was not good and hard to find deodorant that worked.
    vmkids3 at msn dot com

  149. I don’t remember my first experience but do remember my mother telling me @ dinner that I needed to wear deodorant. I must have smelled at 12 or so. Now I’ve had radiation from breast cancer so don’t need it and only wear it if I’m gong somewhere that. If I’m home I don’t wear it as the radiation must have destroyed my sweat glands.

  150. i believe i was 10 when i started wearing deodorant

  151. I was about 12 when I started using deodorant. My oldest son started last year and our 11 year old just started this past summer.
    Thanks so much.
    rickpeggysmith(at)aol(dot)com

  152. I tweeted: http://twitter.com/#!/peg42/status/128226937909936129
    Thanks
    rickpeggysmith(at)aol(dot)com

  153. Having had a serious issue with this for as long as I can remember I have used Mitchum for Women for many years. I would prefer to use one that is more “natural” but have tried them all and they do not work.

  154. I don’t think I started to use deodorant until I was in 7th grade and had gym class with the other girls.

  155. Started using deoderant in middle school sometime. I used to use all of the deoderants that were smelly, but I don’t ever remember licking them!

  156. Cute kids 🙂 I was 12 when I started wearing deodorant–but I didn’t taste it 😉

  157. I don’t remember the first deodorant issue either and still I haven’t found any that I really like.

  158. I follow on twitter 2rose4u
    http://twitter.com/#!/2rose4u

  159. I started using deodorant when we started taking gym classes in junior high.

  160. I don’t remember all the details but I was 12 yrs old when I started using deodorant.

  161. I use my deodorant just after I dry off from my bath.

  162. I’m not sure when I started using deodorant – probably middle school or junior high years.

  163. i use deoderant every morning and as soon as i get out of the shower at night

  164. My older sister wold me a stunk. I guess I was 11. She was really mean to me..lol
    whit1966@gmail.com

  165. I currently use Burts Bees deodorant and I love it, it lets me use a more natural product and it’s much more effective than Toms.

  166. I tend to switch back and forth between Dove and Degree depending on my mood and which scent I want to wear that day. I think right now I have 7 different Dove and Degree scents (Am I obsessed with Deodorant? hmmmmmm……)

  167. i don’t so much have a deodorant routine, other than to apply it each morning. i buy whatever is on sale for a good discount.

  168. I put deoderant on after I dry off from my morning shower, and sometimes, if I’m going out in the heat or to do lots of exercise I’ll add a bit more to be sure

  169. I pull it out of the medicine cabinet when I start getting ready in the morning so it’s sitting on the counter when I’m getting dressed. I hate when I realize I’ve forgotten to apply it!

  170. I started using deoderant when I was 12 years old.

  171. Stephanie Galbraith

    My son has started using deoderant, and he is 10… he smells super bad when he doesn’t. & my daughter is 9, she likes to wear it because her brother does and I do, so it’s the thing to do. She smells sometimes, but usually not… under them pits…

  172. I was probably 10 or 11

  173. parents told me to where it

  174. My first deodorant experience was from a gym teacher in the all girls school I was in – it was mandatory needed or not lol. It was a gross wet roll on – I have used solids my whole adult life because of that

  175. I put on deodorant once a day, after my shower. I usually have three or four different kinds so that I can switch off every few days or so. I have a couple of natural deodorants, one from Tom’s of Maine and one from Kiss My face. And I have a couple of regular anti-perspirants, Ban and Degree.

  176. My routine is pretty simple, but each step is critical: shower, dry, wait, apply. For me, at least, it’s critical that I give my pits the time to completly dry after I shower and before I apply deodorant. If I don’t, it’s just not as effective.

  177. 5th grade – period and deoderant — was young and confused. mom just bought along with razor and said it is time – you are a woman now. remember being scared.

  178. I was 10 years old when I first used deodorant.

  179. I only use Secret

  180. cathy miller / rewcath

    I was 12 when my mom first got me deodorant I was about 12, luckily i did not taste it but rather felt very grown up nupa123atgmaildotcom

  181. cathy miller / rewcath

    https://twitter.com/#!/rewcath/status/128896278003322881 tweeted @rewcath nupa112atgmaildotcom

  182. I have not tasted and have not been tempted to. lol I can’t remember how old I was when I started using it but I’m sure I was really young. I was one of those early developers. lol Thank you!

  183. I don’t have much of a routine, but I tend to use Degree Clinical Protection deodorant every morning after my shower, and usually once more in the evening if I’m going out or a need a little refresh-ening. Degree’s definitely the one deodorant I’ve found lasts for most of the day and doesn’t leave any marks or stains on my shirts. Thanks!

  184. I was 9 when I started wearing it! No licking here though
    Blogtacular contest! Thanks so much! Janna Johnson Jannajanna@hotmail.com
    Janna@feedyourpig on GFC

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  186. I use dove clinical, which you are supposed to apply at night before you go to bed, but I am lazy and that is hard for me to remember, so I just use it like normal antiperspirant in the morning.

  187. I started wearing deodorant when I was 8 or 9 years old. I am a very sweaty person, so needed to start kind of young. My mom bought it for me.

    cweller75@gmail.com

  188. My deodorant routine is to apply it right after a shower, when I am the cleanest.

    chrisdeglen(at)gmail(dot)com

  189. Pingback:Running Naked and My First-Ever Censored Post! (Giveaway!) | Elite Fitness

  190. @chrisdeglen tweeted:

    http://twitter.com/#!/chrisdeglen/status/129832540373647360

    chrisdeglen(at)gmail(dot)com

  191. I started using deodorant when I was around 13…probably long past the time when I actually needed it. But don’t worry…I now apply every day after the shower & sometimes before working out in the afternoon too!

  192. I started using deodorant really early, i also have a sweat problem. I spent about two hours trying to pick one and found out I had to try several till i found one that worked well. It wound up being degree. I think I was around 9 years old.

  193. I use secret clinical strength because I need to. I sweat like a pig. Doesn’t matter what I am doing, I sweat. Walking around the city? I am sweating. Running on the treadmill? Sweating. The label says you only need to apply once a day, but if I am going for a workout, I need apply more. Usually during the day, I end applying more regular deodorant just in case.

  194. I first started wearing deodorant when I was 13 not because I needed it but because my best friend started wearing it 🙂

  195. I’ve tried lots of different brands but wasn’t that happy with any of them so I WAS happy to read a poster’s comment about Dove Clinical. Thanks for the giveaway and the tips!

  196. Get up, deodorize, workout, shower, deodorize. I use whatever I have a coupon for/on sale but try to avoid the powder fresh ones – I hate smelling like sweaty baby powder when I’m working out.

  197. I was 12 when my mom handed me deorderant and said Use it every morning.,

  198. I’m weird about deodorant. I HAVE to use Secret Power Fresh Scent. If they ever stop making that I’m totally screwed. I have a Dove travel sized one I got as a freebie and the scent lingers on all my clothes way longer than the Secret does. And, yes, I determine if tops are dirty based on how strong the deodorant smell on them is.

  199. I’m a secret user now—made for a woman (but I do sweat like a man!)
    nrdunningATgmailDOTcom

  200. Deodorant routine… after every shower, on averege once a day… anything goes usually a free sample of womens or mens… has to be anti-perspirant though, just deodorant is useless – I am pretty sweaty!

  201. I was good with any deodorant until about five years ago, then all of a sudden I developed an allergy to the aluminum. Since I can’t go without (sweat is my gift-with-purchase), the all natural Crystal (in roll-on form, I kept dropping the slippery rock) has been awesome! Well, no one’s complained yet 🙂

  202. after shower, antiperspirant a must. hate weird smelling ones that are too overpowering.

  203. My routine is to put it on in the morning and that’s usual good for the day. Easy enough!

  204. LOL – I think it was only you that licked it to see if it tastes as good as it smells:) You know, I have absolutely no idea when I had to start wearing deodorant.

  205. I started wearing deodorant when I was 12. It was required for PE class and boy did we need it.
    smchester at gmail dot com

  206. I was pretty sweaty when I was going through puberty – even the prescription-strength ones weren’t cutting it for me. Luckily I grew out of that!

  207. I first started wearing deodorant at age 10. We had a class on puberty in school in 5th grade and came home and made my mom take my to the store to pick some up. Teen Spirit was the popular brand back then!

  208. I’m all about the Dove deodorant!

  209. I first started wearing deodorant around age 14. I just remember thinking that was such a grown up thing to do.

  210. Ive been using Secret deodorant since I was 11 years old, and I am 42 now and still satisfied with it.

  211. I’ve always used old spice but i’m thinking about switching to a more “green” brand.

  212. i remember smelling your hand after wiping your under arm to see if deodorant was working

  213. BAck in my day, the deodorant was liquid and sticky! You had to put it on, then walk around with your arms up til it dried! I’m glad things have vastly improved since then. Worse than the sticky stuff was the spray-on stuff- made you choke. That can’t have been good for us!

  214. I think I started to wear deodorant at about 12 years old

  215. I thought deodorant was so grown up. I used my mom’s just like I did her perfume. No need to tell me to do so. I was excited to pick out my own when I finally needed it.

  216. As a massage therapist, I too have often wished I could use my deodorant all over my body…especially my head. I always seem to drip at least one drop of sweat on my client every massage…yuck! I keep a sweat rag on my shoulder but don’t always time it right…you know what I mean. I have thought of tying a sweat rag around my head…oh well…..do they make deodorant shampoo maybe….head treatment?….who knows. Thanks for your sillies about bodily functions…very close to home.

  217. i remember teen spirit being my first deodorant! haha! it smelled like ocean breeze or something…

  218. I started using deodorant when I was about 12 years. I use it after my morning shower.
    helenkeeler@comcast.net

  219. Mary Beth Elderton

    I noticed the need myself at around 12 or 13 and asked my mother for deodorant. When it came to my son, I bought him some at around 11 and showed him how to use it.

  220. Right now I am using Ban Sweet Simplicity. I have to avoid sweet fragrances or I can’t live with myself.

  221. Junior High, when it started to smell.

  222. Lol! Licked it to see if it tasted good! As far as my routine goes, I use Degree’s clinical deodorant at night after my shower (waiting 15 minutes if I shaved…I read somewhere that makes it more effective. Don’t know if it’s true or not). Then I don’t need to apply it again for 24 hours, and if I get deodorant streaks it’s only on my ratty night t-shirts. Thanks for the opportunity!

  223. I started using deodorant when I was 11. I never tried tasting it but I had a boss that did. One day at my desk he bent over and tried to sever a dangling thread in my armpit with his teeth. His only remark when he finished was that my deodorant didn’t taste good! Those were the days before sexual harrassment complaints could be implemented.

  224. I started wearing Arrid deodorant when I was 13.

  225. I was 7 when I started getting smelling.

  226. I get what is on sale, but it has to be a solid!

    Thanks!

  227. I shower each day put on my deodorant and then my son always wants some! Since I don’t want him to start on his aluminum regime just yet (he’s four ) I put it on over his shirt. 🙂

  228. I started wearing deodorant way back in the beginnings of time.. Or at least 50 years ago.
    Thanks for the contest.

  229. use naturally fresh deodorant without parabens and aluminium in winter but in summer I use an antiperspirant

  230. I have been using Dove deodorant exclusive for years. I have tried others but came right back to Dove!

  231. I have become sensitive to some of the ingredients in most of the commercial deodorants, so am in the process of trying some of the ‘non-allergenic’ ones to see which work well AND do not irritant me. So far, I am having limited success, so I just try to stay VERY clean!

  232. I think I started using it at about age 9. My dad said I stunk. 😉

  233. I’m so lucky. I don’t sweat very much. In fact it has to be a very hot day with me doing a lot of moving around for me to sweat at all. But I do like to use deodorant every morning because even if I don’t sweat I just might develop an odor. Please tell me if I need more deodorant!

  234. my grandfather raised me and like the birds and the bees this is something ha didnt feel comfortable explaining so he toook me to distant relatives in texas and sent me off with the cousins so they could explain this when i was 8, already atrocious smell when sweating m my mom did not raise me because of her deep shame about her smell. we found out about a month ago that the severity of the problem is a genetic fault caused to exacerbate by deficiency in zink and magnesiuum and easily corrected once you know whaat the problem is , but still of course, needing deodorant thats strong because of the amount off the ssweat its just nice not to smell like decomposing corpses altho its kind of hhandy not to worry about ever being sexuallly harrased.

  235. yep put it in every morning right after the shower

  236. I use deodorant every day. I put it on in the morning or any time after I take a shower. I started using deodorant in the 5th grade, which is when I hit puberty! I just started using my mom’s and did so until I left home!

  237. I use a clinical strength deodorant at night after my shower, then in the morning when I wake up I use any old deodorant. The combination of the two have worked perfectly.

  238. I was about 11 when I used it for the first time, i remember my mom getting me teen spirit. sweepmorey at gmail dot com

  239. I remember being about 9 years old. It was 4th grade I think. We had just come in from recess, all hot and sweaty. Our teacher actually sat in front of the class and gave a lecture on the fact that we hadn’t learned proper hygiene (apparently the classroom stunk!), and how we needed to go home and talk to our parents about deodorant. hahaha I didn’t think it was very funny at the time, but it gave us a quick heads up, without having to single anyone out and embarrass them. I went right home and got some deodorant from my mom! rofl

    coriwestphal at msn dot com

  240. I was 10 years old and very stinky, times have changed and antiperspirant/deodorant is my friend.

    ky2here at msn dot com

  241. I’ve been using Secret for as long as I can remember and it works great for me. I put deodorant on in the morning after I brush my teeth. If I engage in some sweaty activity during the day, I shower and use deodorant again.

  242. My mom purchased deodorant for me when I turned thirteen and explained what it was for and how to use it.
    It was actually a rollerball type deodorant that I loved the smell of but never wanted to taste.
    I want to say it was Sweet Honesty by Avon.

    jweezie43[at]gmail[dot]com

  243. I don’t remember when I started wearing deodorant, but I remember when my son was in 4th grade and they gave out at an assembly at school. He stunk sooo bad. He had applied it all over his body. Must of tuned out as soon as he got it in his hands and not listened to where to wear it.

  244. I started wearing deodorant at about nine or ten after they talked to us about it in school. My daughters 9 and 11 wear deodorant.

  245. I have definitely not licked deodorant! I even hate it’s texture if it gets on my fingers! I put deodorant on as soon as I get out of the shower. I don’t remember when I started though.

  246. Eww – you licked it? Not here. I don’t remember when exactly I started using deodorant – I guess it was as a tween.

  247. My routine consists of shower, shave pits, apply deodorant.

  248. My routine? shower, shave, and apply! =)

  249. I don’t really remember when I first started using deodorant. I remember that my friends were using it so I wanted to too. I do remember it smelled like baby powder and I loved the scent.
    Thanks for the giveaway!
    eswright18 at gmail dot com

  250. My deodorant works better if I switch it up, so I have a spray and a solid, each different brands. But the most important part of controlling odor for me is shaving the pits. I think bacteria hide under the hairs no matter how short, so I make sure to keep my pits smooth and hair free.

    3oink63moo484@gmail.com

  251. I remember breaking out in a painful rash when I first started using deodorant. We had to go through several brands to find one that didn’t irritate my sensitive skin.

  252. I only use aerosol sauve or degree now.It seems to work the best for me.Thanks!
    lstanziani(at)yahoo(dot)com

  253. My routine is shower ,lotion deodorant.
    I use suave it works great
    stanleybilly(st)bellsouth(dot)net

  254. I think I started using it in gym class.

  255. I used Right Guard when in the 7th grade when I was only 13 yrs. Once I put it on, I knew I had finally arrived…….

  256. Currently I only use unscented deodorant (no matter the brand). I’ve learned that certain smells rub people the wrong way!!!!

  257. I’m guessing I was probably around 11 when I had to start wearing deodorant regularly. I remember getting Teen Ladies Speed Stick! My poor daughters have had to wear deodorant since they were about 8. They stink! LOL

  258. My first experience….ouch, my friend and I we were about 5 thought her mom’s deodorant smelled wonderful-so we sprayed it all over ourselves-including in our hair!!! Then when she asked us about it, we lied to her…big trouble!

  259. I was 10, I started my first period and my mother informed I also needed to start wearing deoderant also..very uncomfortable and matter of fact
    katiesmommy1 at gmail dot com

  260. I wear deodorant every morning after a shower.

  261. I can’t remember when I started using deoderant, don’t remember licking it either 🙂 but the routine is putting it on after I put on my shirt because if I don’t, I usually end up with the deoderant stripes on the bottom of my shirt!

  262. I think I was 12 when I first used deodorant.

  263. I started wearing it in 7th grade, and while I didn’t lick it intentionally to see how it tasted, I do remember tasting it more than once after putting a shirt on after I’d applied it. No one tells a kid to put the shirt on first, you know.

  264. Candice Hopper-Owrey

    i love clinical strength deodorant.

  265. I use Degree in the pure clean scent. I love that smell!

  266. I’ve tried natural deodorants (crystal) but they didn’t work so well for me. I use Dove Go Fresh and I love the different scents. I’m a Gemini and I like variety.

  267. I use deodorant every day after my shower and couldn’t live with out it.

  268. I use Dove. It is applied after I shower. I also have a deodorant imy purse in case I feel that I need to reapply during the day.

  269. I first started wearing deodorant when I was 10. I saw my older cousin putting it on so I wanted to be just like her.

    msjem2001 at yahoo dot com

  270. I used Lady SpeedStick and I apply it in the morning after my shower. reejen at comcast dot net

  271. My routine is to apply after showering, in the morning, a midday applications and as necessary the remaining part of the day

    britch22@earthlink.net

  272. My deoderant routine involves lots of it because i do not sweat like a lady!
    blue65829 at aol dot com

  273. Bwahahaha I can’t say I ever licked it- but I started incredibly young maybe 8 or so- I have a sick need to smell good all the time- yes, I was the crazy chick in the shower less than 20 minutes after giving birth all 4 times.

  274. I use deodorant everyday after I shower.

  275. I use deodorant every day, because I’m one big sweat ball. I even apply it in places other then the pits, hey it works!

  276. I was about 10 when started using deodorant.
    MCantu1019@aol dot com

  277. I think I was around 12 when I started using deodorant. I put on each morning right after my shower.

  278. I started using deodorant when I was about 10.

    itsjustme62613 at gmail.com

  279. Yah, I have to use Secret’s clinical protection, & I don’t even sweat that much. My skin just requires heavy duty stuff, no lie.

  280. I was about 11,realized i didnt smell to good and talked to my mom who took me to pick some out
    ardelong2(at)gmail(dot)com

  281. I was 9, played softball and mom said I reeked. So deodorandt became part of my routinue.

  282. I was 11 years old when I started wearing it and i did taste it

  283. I try to stick with anything that is clear and unscented.

  284. I remember when they made spray deodorant in an aerosol can and how cold it would be when I used it!
    Thanks for the giveaway!

  285. I apply deodorant once a day, after my shower and use Dove.

  286. I use it in the morning after I take a relaxing bath.

  287. I started using the very cold spray type and SO appreciate a solid now.

  288. lol we had a school assembly when I was 11 or 12 that told us all about it, we all got samples and sniffed them, the boys all spice was super strong. I then remember going to the super market deodorant aisle and sniffing them all cos they smelled good. I can’t help but turn red thinking about that LOL

  289. I definitely needed it when I was ten but didn’t really start until I was twelve. It was a smelly two-ish years.

  290. i have no idea how old i was, the best i can remember was that my mom just gave me some and told me i needed to wear it so i didn’t stink. i was probably somewhere between 10-12 its hard to remember. I will probably start my kids younger that that. No, i did not taste it haha!

  291. Debra Hinson Sauvageau

    I was 13 when I first started using deodorant and frankly was scared of it! I had always heard that it was bad for you..it kept your body from getting rid of the poison that came out in sweat! lol..

  292. I don’t remember my first experience, but I do remember the way everyone smelled. Way back then, there weren’t a lot of choices, and there certainly weren’t any nice smelling deodorant bars!

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